December 30, 2025, 84, Goldsboro – Nellie Summerlin Ryan, 84, passed away peacefully early Tuesday morning at Kitty Askins Hospice Center, surrounded by comfort and care.
Nellie was born in Wayne County on September 30, 1941, to the late James Walter Summerlin and Lucille Gregory Summerlin. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Cecil Augustine Ryan; her brothers, Greg Summerlin and Bill Summerlin; and her sister, Jean Summerlin Cox.
At the age of 20, Nellie traveled to France to visit her sister, where she met the man who would become her husband. The couple later returned to Goldsboro, where they built a loving home and raised their daughter.
Nellie worked as a bookkeeper for a number of years and later devoted her time to volunteer service at St. Mary School in Goldsboro. She found great joy and fulfillment in serving the school her daughter attended, particularly through working with children and assisting with the after-school program. Being a mother and nurturing young lives were among her greatest blessings.
A devout Catholic, Nellie was a faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Goldsboro. Her worship, service, and fellowship within the church brought deep meaning and joy to her life. For many years, she was an active member of the Legion of Mary, living out her faith through prayer and service to others.
Nellie is survived by her loving daughter and devoted caregiver, Julie Ryan, whose care and companionship were a constant source of comfort and love.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at Willow Dale Cemetery in Goldsboro, with the family greeting friends following the service at the cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Nellie’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
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